Flowlets

Overview

Flowlets are the building blocks of the flow8 Automation Framework. They represent modular units of logic, which can be either system-provided or custom-developed, to execute automation workflows efficiently. Flowlets can integrate seamlessly into larger workflows, driving powerful automation capabilities.

Types of Flowlets

1. System-Provided Flowlets These flowlets are built into the flow8 framework and offer basic logical capabilities, such as:

   • If: Conditional branching logic.
   • Merge: Merging multiple execution paths.
   • Split: Splitting a single flow into multiple paths.
   • And other fundamental operations required in automation.

2. Custom-Developed Flowlets Flowlets can also be developed externally to meet specific needs. These flowlets can be implemented using two approaches:

   • Sandbox Tool: Develop flowlets securely in a virtualized environment.
   • Container-Based Flowlets: Write scripts in any language (e.g., Python, Bash, JavaScript) and package them using container technologies such as Docker.

Developing Custom Flowlets

• Sandbox Development Use the flow8 flowlet sandbox to create and test flowlets in a controlled environment, ensuring compatibility and security during execution.

• Container-Based Development Write scripts in the language and environment of your choice, then containerize the application using technologies like Docker. Flowlets developed via this method can be easily integrated with the flow8 framework.

Execution and Monitoring

Flowlets can be monitored in real-time within flow8, providing insights into execution status, logs, and outputs. The modular nature of flowlets enables easy reusability and debugging.